Fashion Reinvention

Around the world, traditional dress serves a variety of purposes. Whether it’s a way of remembering your ancestors, performing a religious ceremony, or marking an important event, almost every culture has a type of clothing that is unique to their culture/ country that makes them stand out and instantly recognisable.

However, now there is an evolution of traditional outfits, in a way that younger women are able to wear this attire but still have their own personal style injected,cultural appropriation I guess you can say.Beaded Hijabs, Sari’s and Qipao’s now taking on new silhouettes. It’s the newest way of embracing culture while still forging your own path.

Today we bring you 6 of the best Fashion Reinventions all over the world!

Saree’s

Source: Tanvii

Then:The Saree is one of the oldest forms of clothing, with it dating back centuries, it is still considered as the primary piece of clothing in wardrobes of women all over India. Women feel they look most refined, polished, charming, and lovely while performing their chores in a Saree and at the same time, creating a harmony wherever they are.

Source:Fashion Forward Trends

Now: Now Saree’s are a fashion statement in its own right, and younger women are adapting it by injecting their personal style, playing up the Saree with interesting colours, prints and accessories.

Qipao

Source:Pinterest

Then: These one piece Chinese dresses have it’s origins in China back in the 17th century. The style of the Qipao has evolved over decades and is still worn today.Although Qipao’s are usually crafted from silk or canvas material, there are many variations of the Qipao. Most of them were embroidered, with thick laces trimmed at the collar, sleeves and edges. This style of dress was noted as the highest of standards for Chinese women for thousands of years.

Source:Pinterest

Now: The style of a Qipao is iconic, and still remains, a thigh high slit and a body-hugging fit. However now that it is modernised what has changed is the material used to make Qipao’s, now there is the option for materials that are more breathable,such as velvet and cloth. Additionally now there are different designs,such as batik and marble, to add an elegant modern touch.

Hijab

Source:Biutifa

Then:Hijab fashion popularity has taken a mainstream position in Muslim countries. Islam introduced Hijab as a part of decency and modest interaction between members of the opposite sex. It is a sign of modesty as well as purity.Muslim women also choose to wear the Hijab as an expression of their cultural identity. By wearing the Hijab, Muslim women hope to communicate their political and social alliance with their country of origin.

Source: Pinterest

Now:Younger muslim women are encouraged to embrace old muslim traditions in new and personal ways.It is in a sense practicing their religious obligations while adding to their modesty and beauty. Gone are the days when Hijab’s were only appropriate with dresses and minimal accessories.To make this daily staple look new and exciting,they can be worn with pants, jeans, coats , designer shoes and bags.

Kimono’s

Source: Refinery 29

Then: Kimono’s are the ultimate symbol of traditional Japanese culture. From the seventeenth century onwards they developed as the main item of dress for men and women. They are still worn for special occasions, such as weddings, with modern adaptations making an appearance all over the world.

Source: Pinterest

Now: A modern adaptation of the Kimono is to wear it as outerwear. They look very etherial, and add a bohemian touch to your entire outfit. They feel light and airy, but still cover you up if you’re chilly or if you just want something on your shoulders. They come in all sorts of beautiful patterns, and can be worn with anything!

Flamenco Dresses

Source:Pinterest

Then:These flamboyant dresses that finish in a cascade of ruffles,used to just be for flamenco dancers in the streets of Southern Spain.Flamenco is their traditional song and dance, and the costume reflects that culture. However since the dance became part of the mainstream culture in the early 19th century, the dress has evolved, but the Andalusian influence remained.

Source: Pinterest

Now:This dress was designed to enhance a woman’s figure and hide flaws. Now modern flamenco dresses still have the same characteristics, the tight fit and frills which are meant to enhance the way a woman walks and add to the flirty romantic style.

Hanbok

Source: Vogue

Then:Hanbok is a beautiful cultural heritage that all Koreans are proud of not only for its historical value but also for its uniquely Korean artistic significance.Women’s Hanbok in particular are recognised worldwide for the simple yet delightful harmony of their short jackets and full skirts. The jacket, makes the upper body look very small, while the skirt worn wrapped around the waist makes the lower body look full, creating an attractive balance.

Source: WordPress

Now: The cut and drape of the clothing complements the Korean female physique. Now the Hanbok has been reworked with a modern twist,a lower waistline, practical foot wear and loose curls. Oh so comfy and yet oh so stylish!